MPV Commentary

He Is Taken Up to Heaven in a Chariot of Fire.

11. A chariot of fire and horses of fire suddenly appeared before them. This brilliant light resembled a chariot and horses, but it was actually a divine manifestation.

Elijah was taken up by a whirlwind, accompanied by vivid flashes of fire. This storm wind was a symbol of God's judgment (Isaiah 29:6).

12. Elisha saw the spectacle and cried out, "My father!" He referred to Elijah as his spiritual mentor, just as the pupils of the prophets called their teachers "father."

Elisha exclaimed, "The chariot of Israel and its horseman!" This meant that one prophet had accomplished more for Israel's preservation and prosperity than all her military might.

In grief over his loss, Elisha took hold of his own clothes and tore them apart.

13. Elisha also picked up the mantle Elijah had left behind. This prophetic cloak was a symbol of Elijah's spirit resting on him, and it assured Elisha that he was appointed as Elijah's successor.

14-18. As Elisha waved Elijah's mantle over the water, the river miraculously parted. This miracle demonstrated that God was with Elisha, just as He had been with Elijah. The young prophets from Jericho witnessed this event and immediately recognized Elisha as the new prophet of Israel.

16-18. Fifty strong men from Jericho approached Elisha and asked him to send them to find Elijah's master. They had seen Elijah cross the Jordan but not his ascension, so they assumed he might have been cast onto a mountain or valley. Alternatively, if Elijah had entered heaven, they expected to find his body on earth. Elisha granted their request, but warned them of what would happen next.